How is the restaurant industry in Illinois projected to perform in 2013?
In 2012, the restaurant industry in Illinois employed over 516,000 people and totaled 20.9 billion in sales. In 2013, we’re looking at a projected 3.7% increase, with 517,900 jobs provided and over $21.7 billion in sales. For more information, state-specific data for Illinois is viewable here, and the National Restaurant Association’s 2013 Industry Forecast can be obtained here.

How is the industry considering nutrition for both adults and children in this day and age?
Children's nutrition will be among the strongest restaurant menu trends in 2013 according to the National Restaurant Association's What's Hot survey of nearly 1,800 American Culinary Federation chefs. As the everyday diner seeks more healthful eating options – and products that are sourced from local farmers – it is our responsibility to be involved, working with our members to embrace these growing needs. From the National Restaurant Association’s < href="http://www.restaurant.org/foodhealthyliving/kidslivewell/about/">Kids Live Well campaign, in which several Illinois restaurants participate, to continual awareness and educational opportunities for our members, health and wellness will always be a major priority in our industry.

Read more about how restaurants in America and in our state are taking the lead on nutrition.

We will continue to support opportunities for small business owners and entrepreneurs to enter the food industry in a way that supports Chicago’s world-class culinary offerings, is safe for consumers, maintains important public health standards, and is a real driver of economic activity in the city.